I Know Very Well How I Got My Name

Morrissey's song 'I Know Very Well How I Got My Name' delves into themes of identity, self-awareness, and the transient nature of love. The lyrics reflect a deep introspection, beginning with the juxtaposition of a curious child and a sullen man. This contrast sets the stage for a narrative about personal growth and the experiences that shape one's identity. Morrissey, known for his melancholic and introspective style, uses this song to explore how past experiences, particularly those from childhood, contribute to the person he has become.

The repeated line, 'You think you were my first love, but you're wrong,' suggests a reflection on a significant relationship that the narrator acknowledges was not the first but was uniquely impactful. This relationship is described as the 'only one who's come and gone,' emphasizing its singular importance and the lasting impression it left. The use of 'come and gone' highlights the fleeting nature of this connection, underscoring a sense of loss and the inevitability of change.

The mention of a thirteen-year-old who dyed his hair gold serves as a metaphor for the experimentation and search for identity that often accompanies adolescence. This act of changing one's appearance symbolizes a deeper quest for self-understanding and acceptance. Morrissey's acknowledgment that he 'doesn't need to be told' how he got his name suggests a profound self-awareness and acceptance of his past. The song, therefore, becomes a poignant reflection on how personal history and relationships shape one's identity, with Morrissey's characteristic blend of melancholy and insight.